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52
OFFICES, SHOPS AND RAILWAY PREMISES ACT, 1963
The extensive development of office accommodation taking place in
the London Borough is giving rise to problems associated with design,
height to which office blocks are being built and their location in relation
to other office blocks.
From inspections made within the London Borough, it appears that,
unfortunately, certain unsatisfactory conditions and contraventions can
be found within these modern buildings, with their otherwise spacious
floors, panoramic views and up-to-date equipment.
It is true to say that working conditions have improved tremendously,
but, unless particular attention is directed to heating and ventilation in
these modern blocks, whether they are of single or multiple occupation,
and the requirements of the Act are strictly enforced, unsatisfactory conditions
can obtain.
It appears to be the policy, where possible for economic and efficiency
reasons, to adopt the large open plan type of office, but it would
appear to be not as efficient as it would seem. Individual requirements
for air and warmth create problems, and complaints are made of noise
from telephones ringing, people talking and general disturbance by persons
walking to and from the offices in the course of their business.
This can have an adverse effect on efficiency generally. Machines, such
as those used for punch cards for computers, can create much noise and
heat in large rooms and complaints have been made, both written and verbal,
when inspecting this type of office. The management are often aware
of such unsatisfactory conditions, but no action is taken until an inspection
of the premises ha:s been made and they are acquainted of the necessity
for compliance.
Modern office blocks, due to their construction as tall buildings, and
their close proximity to other tall office blocks, create boisterous wind
currents which funnel over and around them and, in some circumstances,
cause updraught action. The unique position exists that, although in some
cases adequate openable windows are provided, they cannot be used due
to wind currents which cause extreme draught when they are opened. In
one office from which a complaint was received, a female clerk was found
to have secured a length of P.V.C. sheeting to her chair to shield herself
from draughts.
Windows constructed flush with the elevation aggravate the problem
which would be mitigated by the construction of recessed windows to
form wind breaks. The end result is that windows are not opened, and a
stuffy atmosphere causing drowsiness and langour is created.
It has been found necessary in cases where sash windows cannot
be opened to recommend Hinkes-Bird type windows on one elevation at
suitable points, with Ventamatic type units to windows on the opposite
elevation, but in most cases it is a matter of trial and error.